The High Court has sentenced Nicholas Kini to life in prison for his role in the shocking murder of 10-year-old Ishmael Abdallah in Kasoa, a case that has captivated the nation since 2021.

Nearly three years after the tragic incident, the court found two teenagers guilty of the brutal killing. Kini, who was 18 at the time of the crime, received a life sentence, while the first accused, who was just 15, will be sentenced by a juvenile court, as the High Court lacks jurisdiction over minors.

The horrific crime was motivated by a misguided attempt to acquire wealth through ritual means. During the investigation, the first accused admitted to being influenced by a video from a spiritualist who promised riches in exchange for GH¢5,000 and human blood.

The two teenagers lured the young boy to an uncompleted building under the false pretense of giving him a video game. Once there, they attacked him, striking him with a stick before using cement blocks to crush his head. The boy was buried alive, with a pathologist confirming that he died from asphyxiation.

The trial featured testimonies from seven prosecution witnesses, including the father of the deceased, police officers, and family members of the accused. Crucial evidence came from the sister of the first accused, who testified that she had seen her brother and Nicholas Kini at the crime scene on the day of the murder. Her suspicions led to the discovery of the body and the confessions of the boys.

While the first accused admitted to conspiracy, Nicholas Kini maintained his innocence, claiming he had been framed by the other accused. However, his alibi was not supported by evidence.

After a unanimous guilty verdict for both teenagers on charges of murder and conspiracy to commit murder, Justice Lydia Osei Marfo urged the jury to reflect the nation’s conscience in their decision.

The sentencing brings some closure to the family of the young victim.